Motivated by Love

Like the picture on the box cover of a jigsaw puzzle, Mark 2:1-12, gives a picture of what the Church should look like here on earth.  It shows the love, concern and compassion the Church should have toward those who need to encounter Jesus. This passage tells the story of four friends whose love drove them to overcome a variety of obstacles in their journey to bring a paralyzed friend to Jesus.

The story in Mark 2 is a very familiar one; but we often read it so quickly that we miss the fine details. Consider some of these gems:

• Jesus preached the Word (vs. 2),
• Crowds came to encounter Jesus (vs. 3). They were not drawn by the theatrics of the church.
• The 4 friends encountered obstacles; but used innovation, found a ladder, found tools, tore through a roof, and found some rope to lower their friend into the presence of Jesus (vs. 4).
• Jesus rewarded their faith (vs. 5).
• The religious people did not even recognize God the Son right in front of them (vss 6-7),
• Jesus not only showed-up; but He also showed-out by healing the lame man (vss 8-9),
• Spiritual healing took place, before physical healing (vss 10-11), as Jesus accepted the man in the condition in which he came, but loved him to where he needed to be.
• The man, after being healed, IMMEDIATELY got up! He refused to lay there any longer (vs. 12). I am perplexed that so many who experience salvation, still choose to continue in their sin.
•  Jesus’ actions cause people to glorify God (vs 12). Preachers would do well to follow Jesus’ example, rather than trying to build fan clubs to themselves.
• When people truly encountered God, rather than religion; they said, “We never saw anything like this!” (vs 12) 

These are just a few of the amazing things that we see in this picture of what a church “on mission” should look like.  In all of this, one major thing stands out – LOVE.  The men loved Jesus and they loved their friend. Their love drove them to bring their friend to Jesus and it made an impression on all who witnessed the event. 

John 14:34-35 states, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. ³⁵ By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”  Tertullian wrote, “See how these Christians love one another.” A mark of the early Church was their love and it should still be a mark of the Church (true believers) today.

As I close, l encourage you to ask yourself, "How well am I loving others – inside and outside the Church?" If you have time, listen to and think about the old song, “They Will Know We are Christians by Our Love.” --  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wo4ijOIs6as

 

Abortion is a Biblical (Not Political) Issue

On January 22, 1973, the United States Supreme Court issued a 7-2 decision in the case known as "Roe vs. Wade." Their decision was in favor of Norma McCorvey (alias "Jane Roe") and held that women in the United States have a constitutional right to choose whether or not to have abortions without excessive government restriction. Their decision struck down an abortion ban in the state of Texas. Interestingly, in 1998, Norma McCorvey (Jane Roe) revealed that she had experienced a religious conversion, which resulted in a change of heart and her ultimate opposition to abortion.

Abortion continues to be a "hot" topic among politicians and political groups today, but abortion is NOT a political topic... it is a biblical one!  Only God is the Giver of life and no man has the right to end a life whether by abortion, infanticide, genocide, senicide, suicide or any other means. Former President, Ronald Reagan understood the balance of religion and politics. He stated with great wisdom, "We cannot diminish the value of one category of human life - the unborn - without diminishing the value of all human life."  We must see the sacred value in ALL human life.

Each year, around the anniversary of Roe vs. Wade, churches across America take time to remember those people who never experienced life outside the womb, due to abortion.  It is estimated that 6 million Jews were exterminated in the Holocaust by Nazi Germany and 30 million people died under Stalin's tyranny in the Soviet Union; but America surpasses their combined total with over 60 million lives having been lost to abortion since 1973. 

Many women claim they have the right to decide what happens to their body, but Mother Teresa said, "It is a poverty to decide that a child must die so that you may live as you wish." Ronald Reagan noted that, "Abortion is advocated only by persons who have themselves been born."  The former US Surgeon General, C. Everett Koop, stated that not once in his entire medical career, did he ever see one instance in which an abortion was necessary to save a mother's life. The truth is that abortion is not a medical issue, it is a biblical issue. It is not a medical decision -- it is a selfish one. 

The following bumper sticker slogans give cause for contemplation. "Aren't you glad your mother was pro-life?" "Abortion doesn't make you unpregnant, it makes you the mother of a dead child." "If it's not a baby, then you're not pregnant." "Abortion stops a beating heart." And one of my favorites, "As a former fetus, I oppose abortion." 

The topics of abortion & adoption have prompted several projects by pro-life / anti-abortion film makers:

• Bella (2006)
• Meet the Robinson's (2007) - Theme based around adoption
• Horton Hears a Who (2008) - Theme is "A person's a person, no matter how small"
• October Baby (2011) - Powerful story of an abortion survivor
• Crescendo (2011) - Powerful short film - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CafJJNETvqM&feature=youtu.be
• Gosnell (2018) - Based on true story of abortion doctor Kermit Gosnell
• Unplanned (2019) - Based on the true story of Abby Johnson, a former Planned Parenthood employee
• AKA Jane Roe (2020) - Interview with Norma McCorvey about her journey from pro-choice to pro-life
• Final on my list is The Silent Scream (1984) in which a former abortionist teaches about the specifics of the suction abortion.

Realizing that the Bible has been proven to be supernatural by archeology, history, science and prophecy; take time to see what it says on the matter. The absolute truth of Scripture trumps any argument based on moral or cultural relativism. I've included a few pro-life Bible verses below and a link to many more:

• Jeremiah 1:5 - "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart..." 
• Ps 139:13-16 - "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. 14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made...15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place... 16 your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be." 
• Ex 20:13 - "Thou shalt not kill (murder)"

Click the following link to see more Scriptures - https://www.focusonthefamily.com/pro-life/scriptures-advocating-for-the-pre-born/

It is our prayer that Christ-followers would put their politics and political correctness aside to consider what God's Holy Word says on this matter of abortion. We pray that your view regarding the "sanctity of life" will be shaped by the truth of God's Word, rather than politics and culture.

On this anniversary of "Roe vs. Wade," let's take some time to pray for those women who are still struggling with grief and guilt following their decision to abort; for those women who are currently deciding between life, death and/or adoption; for children & families who have experienced adoption; for those medical personnel that care for these women; for Christians to have the courage to follow the teaching of Scriptures; and for our nation to truly understand that ALL LIVES MATTER.

Jesus Prayed for Unity Among the Disciples

Last week, an angry mob stormed the Capital building in Washington, D.C.  The political provocations over the last 4 years reached a boiling point and the political pressure cooker exploded! I won't address the motives, as I cannot answer for each individual; but their actions I do condemn as wrong. Some of the 2020 protests had good reason and intentions; but mobs, looting, riots, vigilante justice, defacing of statues & Federal buildings, destruction of cities & businesses, or overtaking the Capital can never be condoned. No matter how warranted your cause or what issue/decision you might disagree with, anarchy and chaos cannot be endorsed or justified by a follower of Jesus Christ.

It is time to call the Church of Jesus Christ to repentance and seek to restore unity in the House of God.  Dr. Tony Evans said it this way, “

Simultaneous to our medical pandemic, we’re in a cultural pandemic – a devolution of our society caused by a spiritual pandemic. We have wondered away from a value system that was established by God for how human beings were to live and act and relate to one another.”

Dr. Evans added, "Before change can take place in the White House, it must take place in God’s house.”

Today, I call your attention back to what is known as the High Priestly Prayer:

John 17:20-23 NLT - I am praying not only for these disciples, but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one -- as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.  I have given them the glory you gave me, so they may be one as we are one. I am in them and you are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me.  

This is one of Jesus' last prayers here on earth. In this prayer, He is asking the Father to make the Disciples (then & future) to be as one. He was praying for unity.  Jesus could have asked His Father for anything, but He asked for unity among the Disciples (the Church). So, allow me to share a few thoughts about unity...

1. Unity is imperative for the sake of the mission!

The Church has been commissioned to carry the message of God's unconditional love and forgiveness both locally and globally (Matt.28:19-20) . When an unsaved world sees believers who are unforgiving, hate-filled and cannot get along with each other; that pushes them away. Why would anyone desire to have a relationship with God, if His people are so angry?  We are ambassadors for Christ and what others see in us, they assume is true of the One we represent!  Jesus said it is by our love that people will know we are His disciples (John 13:35).  Division destroys our credibility and hinders this mission!

2. Unity reveals God's glory.

"Glory" is symbolic of the tangible presence of God. You see it mentioned when Moses came down from Mt. Sinai, when the angels appeared to the shepherds, etc. God's glory was given to His Church, so let us live and act like we are in His presence. We are to be lights shining eternal hope into the darkness of this world.

3. Unity should be the standard for Christ-followers.

• Pursue it

 Rom 14:19 - Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.

• Maintain it

Eph. 4:1-3 - I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, ² with all lowliness and gentleness, with long-suffering, bearing with one another in love, ³ endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

• Glorify God by it

Rom. 15:5-6 - Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus, ⁶ that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Our world is in chaos and looking for direction. Let us unify behind our one, God-given mission of making disciples and put all of the other "distractions" aside. The church was never called to engage in politics, denominationalism or social activities -- we have been called to impact eternity by sharing the Good News of the Gospel. Let's rally around that cause in such a time as this!

Christians Should be Uniters; Not Dividers

The world has lost its mind, but that does not mean the Church should follow suit.  2020 was like a rerun of the early 1960's with racial tension, political aggression, and much social unrest. Add to that COVID-19, differences of opinion regarding a vaccine, and a presidential election; and you have a powder keg just waiting to blow. So, is there any hope for our seemingly broken, polarized and fractured nation? Let me answer it with an illustration.

Have you ever been in an auto accident?  I have. I was hit in the backend, while sitting still at a traffic light. You could look through my trunk and see my dashboard. Long story made short, I thought my Toyota was totaled! The insurance adjuster thought otherwise. The body shop tech (my brother-in-law at Pro-Quality Collision) said, "I can fix it." He is great at what he does, but I had some doubts. A couple of weeks later, I picked-up my car and it looked brand new. The insurance adjuster and the technician could look beyond the damage and see what was required to fix my car. In comparison, God can not only "fix" our broken nation and world; but HE said, "Behold, I make all things new."

In Ephesians 2:11-18, the Apostle Paul was addressing division in the Church at Ephesus. The Jewish converts believed circumcision was required for salvation and the Gentiles objected. The issue was settled by the Jerusalem Council in AD 49 and should have removed the division, but Paul still had to address it in the Book of Ephesians, written in AD 64. It was 15 years later and they were still divided and arguing. Finally, Paul states in Ephesians 2:8-9 that salvation is by grace through faith and not of works.  He states that God has reconciled all people to himself, into ONE body, through the cross! That statement should end all division in the Church; but sadly, Christians still struggle with it today.

Let's consider a few types of divisions that harm the Church (and families)...

- Preferential divisions

• Cars - Ford or Chevy
• Sandwiches - cut horizontal or diagonal
• Peanut Butter - creamy or crunchy
• Toilet Paper - over or under
• Pizza - thin crust or thick
• And don't forget sports teams!

Preferences should never be allowed to divide a church, a family, or be used to draw lines in the sand.

- Political divisions

• Republicans vs. Democrats
• Conservatives vs. Liberals
• Capitalists vs. Socialists 

One of the most faithful men I know served as the Sheriff in Darlington County, SC for 24 years. He ran on a Democratic ticket (I'm a registered Republican), but we had a mutual love and respect for each other. In fact, I was honored to serve as his Pastor for 14 years and we still remain dear friends today. Another friend of mine is a Democratic State Senator in SC. We disagree on politics, but we both love Jesus, we love each other (and that man can preach)! I have a long list of people that have different views than me regarding politics; BUT most on that list love Jesus, so that means we love and respect each other. 

Rather than focusing on our differences, we choose to focus on the mission that unites us! Christ-followers should put our trust in God, We should never let the kingdoms or earth divide the citizens of heaven!

- Theological divisions

• Baptists - Independent, Southern, Cooperative, American, General...
• Baptism - Immersion, Sprinkling, Pouring...
• Anglican, Catholic, Lutheran, Methodist, Presbyterian & more.
• The list of differences goes on -- Worship Styles, Bible versions, and more.

Bottom-line -- As long as we agree on the "7 Fundamentals of the Faith," nothing else is really significant. Far too often, Christians focus on what divides us, rather than on the mission that unites us. 

Allow me to make a few key points for your consideration on the topic of unity:

1.  Unity is powerful! 

• 1 drop of water can't do much; but put those drops together and they form a river than can carve through the rocks.
• 1 termite can't do much; but a colony of termites can take down a house.
• 1 person can't move a large fallen tree; but many people can push that tree with ease.
• 1 person can make a difference; but a united Church can impact the world for eternity!

2.  Unity is NOT uniformity!

• Bodies have many different parts; but joined together, they form & function as a whole.
• Brides & bridegrooms are very different, but you can't have one without the other and together they form a marriage.
• Families have a moms, dads, kids, aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters, etc. They are all very different, but together they make-up a family.

3.  Unity is NOT optional!

• An organization that does not work together will become defunct.
• A dismembered body cannot function.
• The Body of Christ must be unified.
• A Church that is divided is a terrible representation of Christ to this world.
• 2 Cor. 5:20 - ...we are ambassadors (representatives) for Christ... imploring people to be reconciled to God.

So, what am I telling the world about my God, by the way I respond to politics, racism, violence, hunger, refugees, etc.?  We must be united in our mission, rather than divided over our differences!

God, help me to see people as you see them and to love them as you love them -- UNCONDITIONALLY! 

Vision 2021 - Nehemiah's Strategy for Rebuilding

 

Last Sunday, I used the story of Nehemiah to cast the 2021 vision for our church. Nehemiah saw the need and motivated the people to “rebuild.”  Rebuilding is exactly what pastors and local churches will be doing in 2021.  The COVID-19 pandemic has brought new challenges and difficulties to the Church world-wide; BUT God is faithful and will reward the efforts of HIS people.

Consider the story of Nehemiah as an example for rebuilding in 2021.

 First, Nehemiah went to the people & was moved with compassion (1:2-4).  We cannot know the personal needs of people, unless we spend time with them. In the post-COVID era, pastors will find it essential to move away from the CEO model and return to a pastoral care model.  The pandemic has left people anxious, with both general and spiritual questions. In a time of uncertainty, people need stability and pastors (and all believers) have a great opportunity to meet this need.

Second, Nehemiah went to God in prayer seeking direction and blessing (1:4-11). Too often, we act first then pray later. Nehemiah took time to seek God’s heart, before he started. Too often, ministries and ministers find themselves in trouble because they did not seek the Lord. In a rush to meet physical needs, spiritual needs are often overlooked. With God’s help and guidance, we can make an eternal impact, rather than just a temporary one.

Third, Nehemiah went to the King (his boss) for help with the mission (2:1-3). His testimony and relationship with the King made it possible for him to ask his employer for help and to receive even more than he asked for. Christians should always be the hardest working, most ethical and most reliable employees! I guarantee you that others are watching.

Fourth, Nehemiah went to the local authorities where he encountered opposition (2:9-10). Jews have always been a target for the opposition and now Christian churches are experiencing some of that same resistance and opposition.  Our local & state leaders here in South Florida have been wonderful to work with and they have been very supportive of the faith community.  Other states & countries have not experienced such good leadership, so we need to keep them in prayer.

Fifth, Nehemiah went back to the drawing board (Chap 3).  COVID-19 has caused ministries to evaluate budgets and spending. It has also caused churches to evaluate their effectiveness and efficiency.  As a result of the pandemic, ministries are reshaping their organization chart and restructuring for success.  Many ministry teams are being down-sized and dead limbs are being pruned.  Lazy preachers (a pet peeve of mine) will be applying to work at local retailers, rather than living lazily from the financial gifts of God’s people.  Many ministries will be restructuring and adding new positions to meet the needs of online audiences and creative teams to help recreate the “look” of the church in a post-COVID era.  Thank God that the Gospel is once again the focal point for most churches!

Finally, Nehemiah went for deeper commitment and got people personally involved (3:23-24). Nehemiah assigned people the task of rebuilding the section of wall nearest their homes. Nehemiah knew that people work best when they are personally invested. Over the last 30 years, the Church has lost its moorings. We forgot that we don’t go to church… we are the church!  We are engaged in a spiritual war and we must put on the armor of God, just as those building the wall worked with a sword near their side. Christianity is not about comfort… it is about commitment!

I see the Church of 2021 returning to its God-given mission. Here at Grace we have and will continue to Exalt the Lord… to Equip the saints (Eph. 4:12)… and to Evangelize the world.  The souls of men are hanging in the balance and the day of Christ’s return has never been closer!

As I close, please realize that I do NOT believe a magical switch will be flipped at the stroke of midnight on January 1, 2021 and Coronavirus, racism, rioting, political differences, and the other nonsense of 2020 will magically disappear. I do, however, believe that 2021 will bring great opportunities to advance the Gospel and will be a great year to do ministry! I hope you will join me and let’s do all we can to IMPACT ETERNITY in 2021.

 

Nov.-Dec. Celebration & Praise Report

Praise God from Whom all blessings flow! While so many people set their focus on the difficulties of 2020, it takes only a little effort to see God’s blessings. The blessings have been flowing here at Grace Church and Highlands Christian Academy, so we felt it would be good to share some of them with you. As you read the items below, take a moment to thank God for continuing to use this ministry as a funnel of blessing to serve our church & school families, as well as, our surrounding communities.

I’ll start by listing the blessings chronologically, BUT the biggest blessings are found toward the end – so don’t stop reading…

1. On November 1, we were blessed to welcome our new Youth Pastor, Craig Stephens. Craig & Shannon are both native Floridians, have family in Davie & Cooper City, and they both love and understand the SoFlo culture. Craig has 10 years of ministry experience and is already connecting well with our students.
   
   
2. Another November blessing was to see our church family engage in Operation Christmas Child in spite of COVID-19. The Grace & Highlands family packed a total of 1277 shoeboxes this year, and hats-off to our Brazilian Ministry which packed 300 shoeboxes! They held yard sales to help raise money for supplies and to cover the shipping costs. Thank you, Pastor Alex, for your leadership! We also want to thank Cami Peek for her continued leadership and passion for the OCC ministry. Finally, thank you to all of our volunteers, as we could not have done it without you!
   
   
3. In November, the long-awaited S.T.E.M. building was complete and the Certificate of Occupancy granted. If you have not seen it, look for Building “H,” just west of the gym.
   
   
4. In Nov. & Dec., our Grace family has been blessed to celebrate 3 baby dedications! Continue to pray for the Seagrave’s, Taylor’s and Ingraham’s. Thank God for continuing to bring young families into our church and filling our nursery!
   
   
5. December has looked a little different this year. We’ve missed the BIG school Christmas programs, but our HCA Band and Choir did kick-off the Christmas season on Sunday, Dec. 6. The concert was a way to highlight the students and a great way to invite HCA families to hear the Gospel. Grace Church is thankful to God for allowing us the blessing of having a Christian School as part of our ministry!
   
   
6. December 10 was the 3^rd anniversary of our service in Kreyòl (Creole). The Haitian ministry was very strong pre-COVID, and the weekly attendance continues to increase and move back toward normal. Pray for this wonderful ministry and join me in thanking God for bringing Pastor Jean-Marc Desire’ to us!
   
   
7. The Grace Spanish Ministry continues to flourish and is the only service back to pre-COVID attendance numbers. Pastor Samuel is excited about the renovations that will soon begin in the Upper Room and he continues to take a group to help feed the homeless on the last Saturday of each month at The Lord’s Gift House, and everyone is invited to join in.
   
   
8. The biggest blessings of all have been the salvation decisions! We have seen people saved in every language service here at Grace during Nov. & Dec. In addition, Coach Pridemore informed me that 4 of his HCA basketball players placed their faith in Jesus! In chapel, 6 students were saved recently when our SCORE missionary, John Zoeller, spoke to our students. Mr. Smith shared in Prayer Meeting of a young lady who was saved. Finally, we received a letter in the mail from a lady named Ivory, telling us that she placed her faith in Jesus after reading a Gospel tract that had Grace’s contact information on it.
   
   
9. There have also been other spiritual decisions, including baptisms in the English, Spanish and Portuguese services; as well as, 2 new church members from the Brazilian ministry and 15 new members in the English services.
   
   
10. Finally, we have been blessed to be meeting in-person since May. Thanks to all who have put their personal preferences aside and complied with the COVID-19 safety precautions for the sake of others. Making people feel safe & comfortable is a key in helping to get people back into our services.
    

We are so blessed and say “thank you” for the continued, faithful support of our members, attendees and those joining us online. Your financial gifts made possible the blessings you just read about and your investment has impacted eternity! Thank you for your faithfulness.

Yes… 2020 has brought new challenges and a world-wide pandemic; but as Ed Stetzer stated, “The moment we are in does not pause the mission we are on.”  Join us in asking God to use the ministries of Grace & Highlands in ways beyond what we can even imagine in 2021.

The Faithfulness of God

"Great is Thy Faithfulness," "Your Love Never Fails," "Faithful One," "What a Faithful God," "He is Faithful" are just a few of the many, many songs about God's faithfulness. We sing them, but do we really stop to ponder them. When things are good, we quickly close our eyes and raise our hands as we tout God's faithfulness; but what about in the valley? Do we sing about God's faithfulness when life seemingly turns on us... when we are faced with a pandemic, lose a job, are betrayed by a friend, hit rock bottom, receive a poor diagnosis, or any of thousands of other issues that people encounter each day? The truth is that God IS faithful and His promises are everlasting. It's so easy to walk away from a church, to turn our back on God, or to return to our old ways when things don't go our way; but remember that God is faithful. Remember that HE promised never to leave us, nor forsake us. I'm reminded of Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope." What a great reminder that God is still in control, He is present with us, and He has a plan for each of us.

One of my favorite hymn stories is associated with the hymn "It is Well With My Soul." Horatio Spafford penned the words to this hymn after several traumatic events in his life. Spafford was a very successful lawyer who had made substantial real estate investments in Chicago. The first tragedy was the death of his two year old, followed by the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which destroyed much of his real estate and ruined him financially. In 1873, he planned a boat trip to Europe for a much needed vacation with his wife and four daughters. Spafford sent the family ahead while he stayed behind to finish some last minute business. While crossing the Atlantic, the ship sank rapidly after colliding with another vessel and all four of Spafford's daughters died. Only his wife, Anna, survived and sent him a telegram, "Saved alone …". Shortly thereafter, as Spafford traveled to meet his grieving wife, he was inspired to pen the words to "It is Well With My Soul" as his ship passed near where his daughters had died.

We will all encounter difficulties in this life... in fact, Jesus predicted it in John 16:33, "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” It is in the times of danger that the chicks run to gather under the mother hen's wings. Likewise, it is in life's difficulties that we are drawn back into the arms of our Heavenly Father. So, whatever comes your way, remember that God is faithful! You can count on Him to fulfill the dreams and the plan He has for you!

I Don't Want to Go Back to Pre-COVID "Normal"

Following is a letter I wrote to our 90+ church/school employees that I wanted to share with our Church family (and beyond).  Let's see COVID-19 as a great opportunity to move forward, not backward.

COVID-19 caught the world by surprise and resulted in death and destruction globally.  The closing of businesses, mandated quarantines and shortage of toilet paper wreaked havoc, created anxiety and increased depression.  Like so many others, I have found myself occasionally on the roller coaster of emotions; until I embraced the perspective that God is still in control and “…all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”

Believing that God is completely in control, I have to tell you how excited I am about the opportunities COVID-19 is giving our church & school ministry. While some are discouraged, I am truly giddy over this God-given opportunity for enhancement and improvement. I see COVID-19 as an opportunity to hit the “reset” button across this ministry. God is giving us a blank canvas or clean slate by which to throw-off the old and embrace new ideas for effectively reaching and impacting people with the Gospel. 

I often hear people say they want to “return to normal,” but let me remind you what pre-COVID “normal” looked like: 

• In January 2018, Thom Rainer – CEO of LifeWay Resources stated – “Between 6,000 and 10,000 churches in the U.S. are dying each year. That means around 100-200 churches will close this week. The pace will accelerate unless our congregations make some dramatic changes.”
• In April 2019, Jeffrey M. Jones with Gallup reported that church membership in America has declined 20% since 1999.
• In Monroe, Dade & Broward counties, multiple Christian schools closed and enrollment was declining in many others.

Wanting to go back to that “normal” is like wanting to go back to the “good ol’ days” of no electricity; no indoor plumbing; a lack of education in the 1940’s; violence of the 1950’s; sex, drugs & rock-n-roll of the 1960’s; the energy crisis of the 1970’s; the recession of the 1980’s; and so on. It’s like the Israelites wanting to return to Egypt. Too often, we only remember the good things, the comfortable things and we forget the rest. 

So, rather than looking backward, I want to ask you to join me in focusing on the future.  Will you dream with me?  Will you have the courage to launch out as Abram did, not knowing where he was going; but trusting God to lead him?  Will you trust God’s plans for you as Jeremiah described them, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”  Will you pray the prayer of Jabez, asking God to “…bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory…”?

Returning to “normal” is merely going back to what is comfortable, to a place you have already been, and to things you have already done. I hope that you, like me, want to see God do something new and miraculous through Grace & Highlands in the days ahead.

I am inviting you to trust God and see if COVID-19 is the start of something fresh and new!  Be encouraged by Isaiah 43:19 – “For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.”

Our senior staff is meeting weekly to evaluate and dream about the future of our church and school ministry. I will be meeting with Department Heads in the weeks ahead to hear the vision God is giving them regarding how to reach and minister to those He has placed in their care. All employees are invited to share ideas with me via email or come by and let’s discuss them. I also ask everyone to pray… pray… pray!  We want to hear God’s heart and follow His leading.  I am claiming the promise of Psalm 37:23 – “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord…”

I am truly excited about the opportunities that this season of COVID-19 will present us moving forward… although I am also looking forward to the day it passes and we can enjoy whatever the “new normal" might be. :)

The Church - Post-Pandemic

Here at Grace Church in Pompano Beach, FL we are searching and praying for God’s direction regarding how to grow this local church in the post-pandemic world. Some estimate that 20% of the world's churches that existed pre-COVID will close as a result of the pandemic. Some estimate that church attendance will never be what it was pre-COVID. Most agree that church giving will see somewhere around a 20% average decrease.  Certainly there will be some changes and “yes” the church will look different, BUT I am trusting that God knows exactly how to build and bless HIS Church, regardless of the difficulties.

When you look back through history, you see that the early church faced many hardships and extreme opposition from the Jewish establishment, as well as, the Roman empire. That persecution drove the Church at Jerusalem to scatter, thus resulting in the Gospel being carried around the world. History records Christ-followers beheaded and tortured as martyrs for their faith. For centuries, missionaries have sacrificed their lives to share the Gospel with unreached people groups. Many believers have and continue to risk their lives meeting in underground churches, while others are being killed under the guise of ethnic cleansing. When the world was not busy opposing the Church, denominations launched attacks against one another leading to persecution and sectarian violence. The truth is that the Church has faced opposition and hardship since her inception, but God has always protected HIS Church.  Historically, the Church has flourished in the face of adversity and I believe it is going to happen, again!

Strength and unity are often the result of hardship. No doubt that this pandemic has presented a great hardship for the Church around the world. In a post-COVID world, the result may be that churches will return to being laser-focused on their purpose for existence. Seeker-sensitive will be replaced by disciple-driven strategies. Attractional methods of church growth will be replaced by a return to one-on-one evangelism. Theatrical performances and Sunday sermonettes will be replaced by authentic worship, powerful sermons and strategic disciple-making. The vertical church or Sunday experience will be replaced by the horizontal church, made-up of various teaching opportunities all week long. Online church experiences are here to stay and must be embraced.  Sadly, physical attendance will probably be seen as optional for many, but the fellowship of saints gathering in worship will grow sweeter and sweeter. The rush to end services "on-time" so people can get to the restaurants will be replaced by saints hanging-out and savoring their time together.  These are just a few of the changes I see coming and I believe there will be many, many more... and not all bad.

So, let me encourage you not to be overcome by changes resulting from COVID-19. Instead, be encouraged. I believe these changes can be opportunities for the post-pandemic church to flourish. The fluff and fillers that many have relied on to draw crowds and the shows that have lined the pockets of far too many false prophets, will be replaced by people seeking to dig deeper and find real meaning in their relationship with Jesus Christ. Change is not always a bad thing, and in this case, it could be one of the greatest things that helps bring the Church back to what God designed her to be.

Remembering 9/11 & Prayer for Our Nation

 

Do you remember where you were on September 11, 2001?  I remember it like it happened yesterday. I was in my office at Grace Fellowship Church in West Palm Beach, FL and heard a lady named MaryAnn running down the hall and shouting, “A plane just hit the World Trade Center.” People left their offices and gathered in front of the TV located in our preschool courtyard to watch the reports and witness the next plane hitting the second of the twin towers. Then came the report of the plane hitting the Pentagon… then of United flight #93 crash landing in the field.  We knew that our nation was under attack!  A sense of panic could be seen on the faces of those present. It was not long, before parents arrived to pull their children out of school, just to hold them close and retreat to the safety of their home. Fear was moving quickly across our nation.

I remember in the days immediately following the attack that patriotism was at an all-time high. American flags could be seen flying on houses, businesses, vehicles and almost anywhere they could be mounted. Demand was high and it was difficult to find an American flag in any store -- and God help the person who would dare to disrespect our flag in public! Red, white and blue colors were seen everywhere and on everything. When the National Anthem was played, it was as though every American would stand tall, puff out his chest and feel that sense of being proud to be an American.  Americans laid aside their differences and stood united against the cowardly enemy that had attacked our great nation. The enemy did not attack white lives, black lives, brown lives, Republicans or Democrats; they attacked the United States of America!

In the weeks that followed the attack, churches were full of people seeking answers and comfort to the senseless attacks.  The recruiting offices were full of people enlisting to defend our freedoms. Patriotic songs were being written, patriotic concerts were being sponsored, people were hailing the first responders (including police) as heroes, and funds were being raised for the families of the victims. There was a spirit of unity and patriotism like I had never witnessed in my lifetime.

Today, we remember the 19^th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks; but what a difference nineteen years can make!  Today, patriotism seems at an all-time low, our flag is being burned, overpaid athletes kneel during our National Anthem, the NFL promotes segregation by playing 2 national anthems; the divide of racism is growing wider by the day; anarchist thugs are rioting, looting and murdering;  politics are fueling hatred (both parties); and our nation is more divided than I could have ever imagined.  

The United States of America is not black, white, brown, blue, red or any other color – it includes people of every color! America is a nation of diversity. That diversity includes skin colors, languages, ethnicities, nationalities, political parties and so much more. We are not a 3^rd world nation nor a Communist regime that makes changes through coups, revolutions, anarchy or any other primitive means. We are a sophisticated nation with rules, laws and a proven political system that gives each citizen a voice/vote in the direction of our nation.

Today, America finds herself in a much different place than we were on the weeks after 9.11.01, but the of strife and disunity did not happen overnight. Many college professors have been indoctrinating students with Marxism for decades. Many educators have been rewriting history to suit their slant or agenda. Pro-death groups have devalued the sanctity of human life from the womb to the tomb. Helicopter parents have proclaimed their children perfect and have embraced the art of blame shifting. Authorities have been deemed evil and unworthy of respect. The welfare system has created the socialist distribution mentality. People now choose to sue, rather than resolve. The point is that we are simply reaping what we have been sowing for decades and our country is at a point of crisis.

So what is the answer? I suggest there are two, 1) the American Church must humble itself, pray, seek God’s face and turn from her wicked way (2 Chronicles 7:14). Only God can bring peace to our nation, as no political party is going to make that happen. 2) Americans must stop fighting over differences, find unity in our diversity, and rekindle our national pride. The United States of America is still the greatest nation on earth, as proven by those who sacrifice everything to come here.

Today, let us take a few moments to remember the victims, families and heroes of September 11, 2001. Let us also take a few minutes to pray for our nation, citizens, leaders and future.

God bless America!